my patient advice logo - used for header - mypatientadvice.co.uk
All Topics
Contact Us
Free Health Updates
Table of Contents
< All Topics
Print

Are EEG Theta/Beta Ratios Reliable in ADHD Imaging? 

PostedOctober 7, 2025
UpdatedOctober 7, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

The ADHD EEG theta/beta ratios are often discussed as a potential marker for diagnosing ADHD, but their diagnostic reliability is still a topic of ongoing research. Studies have found that individuals with ADHD tend to exhibit higher theta wave activity and lower beta wave activity compared to those without the condition. This imbalance in the theta/beta ratio is thought to correlate with ADHD symptoms like inattention and hyperactivity, which makes it a promising tool for assessing the disorder. 

Get your Private ADHD assessment

What Makes the Theta/Beta Ratio Reliable? 

The theta/beta ratio in EEG patterns has been considered a useful biomarker for ADHD due to its connection to neural activity. In people with ADHD, the increased theta waves, linked to relaxed or distracted states, can dominate the brain’s electrical patterns. The lower beta waves, which are associated with focused thinking, contribute to difficulty in concentration and impulsivity. 

However, the reliability of using this ratio as a definitive diagnostic tool remains debated. Variability in brain waves between individuals and across different study settings can lead to inconsistent results. Additionally, ADHD can manifest with a variety of comorbidities, and the theta/beta ratio may not always correlate strongly with the severity of symptoms. 

How It Helps in Treatment 

Despite these challenges, understanding the theta/beta ratio can guide treatment decisions. Clinicians may use this data to tailor interventions such as medication or CBT aimed at improving brain activity regulation. By addressing the neural imbalances, therapies can be personalised to enhance focus and impulse control. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations tailored to your ADHD care and support needs. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD fMRI tasks.

Get your Private ADHD assessment

Phoebe Carter, MSc

Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

Let’s get started on something great

Sign Up for our FREE monthly medical updates. No spamming! Only the best content summary from the month on all medical topics

© 2025 My Patient Advice. All rights reserved.